> **Defensive Rookie of the Year: Caleb Downs, Dallas Cowboys**
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> The Cowboys have big plans for Downs, who instantly becomes one of Dallas’ most versatile players.
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> When I asked head coach Brian Schottenheimer at training camp where Downs is best served on the field, he said “anywhere,” then pointed out that he can cover star receiver CeeDee Lamb up the seam.
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> The Cowboys will play Downs primarily in the slot, where he can disrupt in the open field. “He will play in the middle of the defense, so he will probably have some ball production and high tackle numbers,” an AFC executive said. “And if he helps turn around Dallas’ defense, he’ll be looked at as a catalyst.”
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> The last defensive back to win DROY was Sauce Gardner in 2022, when he recorded two interceptions and 20 pass deflections. Ball production is a must to win this award.
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> **Also receiving votes:** Rueben Bain Jr. (Tampa Bay Buccaneers), Mansoor Delane (Kansas City Chiefs), R Mason Thomas (Chiefs), David Bailey (New York Jets)
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> …
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> **Coach of the Year: Brian Schottenheimer, Dallas Cowboys**
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> This race featured no runaway favorite. Last year’s prediction was Jim Harbaugh, who could be well-positioned to actually win it this year.
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> But in a tight race, let’s go with a bit of a wild card: Schottenheimer, who has acquitted himself well in Dallas behind the scenes and has most of what he needs to win.
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> ”I think [Dak \[Prescott\]](https://www.espn.com/nfl/player/_/id/2577417/dak-prescott) will have a big year; we know they can score; and the defense should be much improved,” an NFC scout said. “If they stay healthy, they have a good chance to win the NFC East.”
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> **Also receiving votes:** Dan Campbell (Detroit Lions), Jim Harbaugh (Los Angeles Chargers), Sean McVay (Los Angeles Rams), Kellen Moore (New Orleans Saints), Jesse Minter (Baltimore Ravens)